![Central African Republic [shutterstock]](https://2017-2021.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Central-African-Republic-e1555940224987-2500x1406.jpg)
Ambassador Lucy Tamlyn
International Travel Information
What you need to know before you go: visas, Embassy & Consulate locations, vaccinations, etc.
International Travel Information: Learn MoreHighlights
November 30, 2020
November 25, 2020
![Women, Peace, and Security #WPSinAction [Photo: Mohamed Abdullah Adan/Pact]](https://2017-2021.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/6_8_WPSGraphic1_TW_v3.jpg)
U.S. Relationship
- U.S.-Central African Republic Relations
- U.S. Assistance to Central African Republic
- Bilateral Economic Relations
U.S.-Central African Republic Relations
The U.S. established diplomatic relations with the Central African Republic (C.A.R.) in 1960, following its independence from France. The U.S. and C.A.R. share a vision of a more stable country that enjoys greater stability and security, experiences improved economic growth and development, contributes to regional stability, and is a reliable partner on issues of mutual importance. The U.S. also supports C.A.R.'s efforts to develop strong institutions that will improve transparency through capacity-building, strengthen the rule of law, and promote unity among Central Africans.
U.S. Assistance to Central African Republic
The Central African Republic (C.A.R.) ranks 188 out of 188 countries on the United Nations Human Development Index. Over the past two years, the U.S. has provided over $300 million of humanitarian, development, and security assistance in support of the C.A.R. people’s efforts to find long-term stability and peace. The U.S. has provided assistance to strengthen the UN mission and humanitarian aid to address the continuing humanitarian crisis in C.A.R.
Bilateral Economic Relations
The U.S. and the Central African Republic (C.A.R.) have a small amount of bilateral trade. In 2004, the U.S. removed C.A.R. from the list of countries eligible for preferential trade benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). C.A.R. regained eligibility for benefits under AGOA in 2017.
![Central African Republic Flag: Four equal horizontal bands of blue (top), white, green, and yellow with a vertical red band in center; a yellow five-pointed star to the hoist side of the blue band; banner combines the Pan-African and French flag colors; red symbolizes the blood spilled in the struggle for independence, blue represents the sky and freedom, white peace and dignity, green hope and faith, and yellow tolerance; the star represents aspiration towards a vibrant future. [CIA World Fact Book]](https://2017-2021.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Central-African-Republic-flag.gif){kind=small}